Iowa multiple car accident caused several serious injuries
Local news for Des Moines, Iowa reported on an accident that caused a multiple vehicle pileup.
Several damaged vehicles and injuries reported in Des Moines area
A sergeant with the Des Moines Police confirmed that multiple people were hospitalized after the incident. It happened on a Saturday night between Southeast 14th Street and Hartford Ave. Their injuries were merely described as serious, and several cars were involved.
A statement from the department said that the southbound lanes between the two streets were closed for at least two hours. Part of Gratis Ave also remained closed. Drivers were advised to avoid the area and make alternative travel arrangements.
A full investigation was planned to gather more details and determine the exact cause of the accident.
What should a driver do after being involved in a multiple vehicle accident?
It is imperative to both contact local law enforcement and your insurance provider to help sort this situation out. This is required by state law and the terms of your insurance policy, because leaving the scene of an accident without contacting anyone is a crime everywhere in the U.S.
When the police arrive, they will start an investigation and generate an accident report that contains crucial details and opinions regarding what happened and the legal cause of the situation. They can provide more information at the scene, and they will call for medical assistance if anyone is injured. The accident report and other pieces of evidence from the scene will be used during the process of a trial or negotiating a settlement agreement.
How can fault be determined?
There are various ways that negligence laws have adapted in every state to account for situations where there may be multiple drivers and vehicles partially at fault, with no clear legal conclusions. Most of the personal injury cases that are filed after a motor vehicle accident are actually negligence lawsuits.
Iowa’s negligence laws say that a person can recover in an accident when they are partially at fault, as long as their fault is not greater than the person they are suing. Their damages will be reduced according to their level of fault in the accident. In other words, someone who is somewhat responsible for causing a multiple vehicle accident may still recover money from others involved, however there will be an important factual determination regarding how negligent they were in creating the situation.
Find out if a lawsuit is necessary
If you have been injured, there is help available. You can talk with a local attorney in Iowa about the possibility of filing a civil lawsuit and ask other questions. Speak with a lawyer at:
Eells and Tronvold Law Offices
1921 51st Street NE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52402-2400
319-393-1020
www.eellsandtronvold.com
